Cade Klubnik on the New York Jets trading up to draft him in 2026

Things didn’t unfold exactly how Cade Klubnik once envisioned heading into his final college season, but by Saturday afternoon, he had his NFL opportunity.

The New York Jets made sure of it, trading up in the fourth round to grab the former Clemson quarterback with the No. 110 overall pick. He was the fifth signal-caller selected in the 2026 draft.

“The process was awesome,” Klubnik said. “It was fun. It was a great time. But excited to go be a Jet. Pumped and really thankful for this opportunity… I’m excited to go to work.”

New York showed clear intent by moving up 18 spots in a deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, sending away two picks to land him. That decision wasn’t lost on Klubnik.

“It means a lot,” he said. “It shows their interest in me… I kind of woke up this morning thinking, ‘I hope the Jets pick me.’”

Even with an uneven 2025 season, Klubnik leaves Clemson with major production and experience, finishing among the program’s leaders in multiple passing categories while helping guide the Tigers back to the College Football Playoff during his career.

He also built a strong connection with the Jets’ staff before the draft, including head coach Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Frank Reich.

“I had multiple meetings with them and had a workout with them,” Klubnik said. “I feel like I always clicked really well with their staff… really excited to go to work with them.”

Now, his focus shifts to proving himself at the next level.

“I’m excited,” Klubnik said. “I’m a competitor… excited to get in that room and go to work. I already told Coach Reich, send me the playbook tonight… I think my best ball is ahead of me.”

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